Rafael Gonzalez, M.Ed., M.S.
Rafael Gonzalez, M.Ed., M.S.
HDMG Administrator
Master of Science, Health Risk Communication
Master of Education, Advanced Studies - History, Adult and Continuing Education
Certification, Drug and Alcohol Counseling
Rafael Gonzalez has been an integral part of High Desert Medical Group's leadership team for over twenty years. As HDMG's Administrator, Mr. Gonzalez provides exemplary executive leadership, directing the overall operation of the most respected medical group in the Antelope Valley.
Mr. Gonzalez earned his Bachelors Degree in Social Sciences with a major in Psychology from Chapman University, California. He continued his education at Chapman University, Orange California, and was awarded a Master's of Science Degree in Health Risk Communication. He also holds Graduate Certification in Gerontology from Chapman University, Orange, California. In addition, Mr. Gonzalez is certified by California State University Bakersfield in Drug and Alcohol Counseling with professional experience in the juvenile detention system. Recently, Mr. Gonzalez earned a master's degree in education with a concentration in adult education. Through this, he became inspired to improve the lives of those disrupted by poverty and founded the non-profit organization, The Paz and Esperanza Project for Relief and Education, dedicated to serving those less fortunate.
In 1989 Mr. Gonzalez joined High Desert Medical Group and rapidly gained extensive experience in Network Development, Medical Group Operations, Sales and Marketing. Throughout his tenure with HDMG, Mr. Gonzalez has fully embraced HDMG's moniker, LIFE -to lead, inspire, foster and educate. He is highly esteemed by all HDMG employees and physicians for his compassion and dedication to deliver the best in healthcare for life to all HDMG patients and their families.
Mr. Gonzalez is committed to giving back to his community and actively serves on several community-based medical and social service boards of directors, including but not limited to: The Antelope Valley Boys and Girls Clubs, AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization), Antelope Valley Mental Health America, and the American Red Cross. In addition, Mr. Gonzalez has volunteered for the Southern California Special Olympics for many years.
In 1969, Mr. Gonzalez, his father and brother, were cast in “The Wild Bunch”, a prestigious American film, which received two Academy Award nominations. Thirty years later, in 1999, the film was inducted into the Library of Congress National Film Registry by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest American films of all time.
Among his numerous accolades and recognitions, Mr. Gonzalez counts the Navy Reserve Employer Appreciation Award, given in thanks for supporting HDMG employees who serve in the navy reserves, as one of his most treasured.